Where to go in Vietnam
Introduction
A long, thin country stretched vertically on the east coast of southeast Asia, Vietnam's three main regions are the mountainous north, verdant central and beach-laden south. Deciding where to go can be a challenge – speak to our travel specialists if you need help planning.
In the north, you’ll find lush green valleys framed by misty mountain ranges home to many of Vietnam’s surviving minority tribes. Beach-goers flock to central Vietnam for its pristine white sands, while those wanting to head off the beaten track should explore the highlands and the colonial hill station of Dalat. In South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong River Delta and the palm-fringed islands and beaches of the coastline draw the crowds.
Indeed, from the limestone peaks of Halong Bay, the French boulevards of the capital Hanoi and the thick forests of the north-west, to the charming tea shops of cultural Hoi An, the glorious beaches of Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, and the floating markets of the mighty Mekong River, you'll find cultural diversity and natural wonders around each and every corner. This is a fantastic destination to explore by water, and we offer a number of Vietnam cruise tours for the curious traveller. Travel from Hanoi through Halong Bay, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City before embarking on an overnight cruise on the Mekong Delta in a houseboat ornamented with wood carvings and traditional design.
Vietnam is a country to explore in-depth, and if you have the time, the best way to get to know Vietnam is on a slow journey deep into its cities and countryside.
Map
List of regions
Although Ho Chi Minh City was renamed after its fall at the end of the Vietnam War, Vietnam's largest city is still known to most as Saigon. It’s a place that our travel specialists know and love – explore its mix of modernity and ancient culture in style.
The Central Highlands region, Tây Nguyên, is often referred to as the backbone of Vietnam. If you’re looking to head off the beaten track, this is a good place to start – speak to our travel experts for help with planning.
Vietnam's central coast has a lot to offer, including splendid ancient ruins, emperors' palaces - such as those at Hue - and distinctly French colonial mansions. It’s also where you’ll find some of Vietnam’s best beaches.
Southern Vietnam and the Mekong Delta form the ‘rice bowl of Asia', a rich agricultural land that supports nearly 18 million people who live and thrive among its matrix of canals and waterways.
Halong Bay is a geological marvel and natural wonder; an enormous stretch of jade-hued sea broken by the eruption of limestone towers that rise above its still waters. Its vastness is such that you will always find a new cave or hidden grotto to explore among its emerald inlets.
